Michael Barnett: Michael’s fascination with glass
started as a teenager. He began studying glassblowing
in San Francisco at Public Glass, completing their 9 month program. He then attended a three month concentration at the legendary Penland School of Crafts in Penland, NC.

Michael assisted Herman C. Leonhardt of Swamp Art
in Branchville, SC for two seasons. In November 2007,
Michael opened the doors to his own studio, Ganesh Glass, Charleston’s only hotshop.

Michael was especially moved and influenced by his
travels to Asia (Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Malaysia),
where he was introduced to Hinduism. He gained an
appreciation for the many gods in this religion. Ganesh,
the remover of obstacles, being his favorite.

Since Ganesh Glass opened, Michael and assistant, Cary, have furthered their studies by attending a class at Corning, New York at the studio, on form and shape. Michael is going for a second class in August, and will again study under Anthony Schafermeyer and Claire Kelly. The course is entitled: "Playing With Pattern."

Cary McCarter: An artist from Summerville, SC has been Michael’s only assistant since opening Ganesh Glass. He is a painter and sculpter who has recently developed a deep love and passion for glass. Their shared devotion is apparent in the work they produce.